Louisville is a charming southern belle of a city with a derby full of galloping fire opportunities. Ranked at #16 for cost of living, Louisville offers country charm and city amenities. The job growth is pacing around the national average, and the unemployment rate has gone up a reasonable 4.2% since the recession began. Louisville opened its first fire house in 1858 and today employees over 500 highly trained men and women.

Bonus fun fact: 90% of the United States’ disco balls are produced in Louisville.